Canada will now require negative COVID-19 tests from air travelers

Travelers to Canada should be aware that it has put new measures in place around air travel. This is to help prevent flying from being a source of further introduction and spread of COVID-19 and new variants of the virus.

From 7 January, all air passengers aged five years of age or older will be required to test negative for COVID-19 before traveling from another country to Canada. They must present proof of a negative PCR test result to the airline prior to boarding the flight, and the test must be taken during the 72 hours prior to departure. Those who receive a negative test result will be authorized to enter the country, but they must still complete the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival.

Travelers will have their quarantine plans reviewed by a government official, and, if not deemed suitable, they will be required to quarantine in a federal quarantine facility. They must also use the ArriveCAN App or website and provide accurate contact information and their mandatory 14-day quarantine plan on, or before, entry to the country.

“The COVID-19 situation continues to show its unpredictable and rapidly changing nature," says the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, minister for foreign affairs. "We, therefore, need to implement additional quick and effective actions to protect the health and safety of all Canadians. We still strongly advise against non-essential travel outside Canada, as the likelihood of sudden restrictions and additional requirements during the pandemic may result in travelers facing difficult and stressful circumstances while abroad."